Report: Arsenal to consider future of Lokonga and Elneny next summer

By Jordan Harris

Arsenal plan to consider the future of Albert Sambi Lokonga at the end of the season, according to a report from 90min.

The jury seems to still be out on Lokonga at the Emirates. The 23-year-old arrived in 2021 with a big reputation having already captained Anderlecht and found himself in the Belgium senior squad.

Arsenal fans would have always known that he was signed with one eye on the future. But it is hard to not feel a little concerned that he is still struggling for game-time in Mikel Arteta’s side.

Arsenal to consider Lokonga future in the summer

He has not played in the Premier League since the North London derby win over Tottenham at the start of October. And he has only made two starts in the top-flight this season.

The Gunners meanwhile, continue to be linked with midfielders, including Youri Tielemans and Yunus Musah. And with that, it seems that Arsenal may decide to cut their losses on Lokonga in the coming windows.

According to a report from 90min, the Gunners plan to consider the futures of both Lokonga and Mohamed Elneny in the summer.

Elneny’s situation is understandable. He has been more of a fringe player in the last couple of years. But clearly, he brings an incredible amount to the squad away from the pitch. And you would imagine that Arteta would love to keep him for as long as possible. He has described him as ‘amazing‘ in the past.

Lokonga may not be willing to wait around, particularly if new midfielders do come in.

He is clearly very talented. Vincent Kompany previously compared him to Yaya Toure in an interview with Rio Ferdinand. He has just not received the chance to show that talent in his best position.

He may be wary of staying at Arsenal. His challenge now is to show that Arteta does not need further reinforcements in the middle of the park.